Interview

What book(s) have you written?

• Here With You, a realistic Islamic fiction
• Zaynab bint Jahsh: The One with the Longest Hand, a children's picture book

When did you first realize you wanted to be an author?

Ever since I was little, I loved to write stories. I remember writing stories during in my dad's office.

How long did it take you to write your book(s)?

Around 3 years. I used to draft it on and off. 

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I enjoy writing at night, in the dark, on my bed, when everyone's sleeping around me.
 

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

Real-life scenarios along with research for factual information, my learnings, knowledge, and experiences.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Reading, teaching, and practicing as a Qur'an Life Coach.

What does your family think of your writing?

They are my alpha-readers. Their critiquing helps me to develop and polish the characters and plots.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

I realized I love writing books and creating stories, especially those that are filled with Islamic morals and values.  

Do you have any suggestions to help people become a better writer? If so, what are they?

Read, read, read, and write, write, write. When you're not writing, read; and when you're not reading, observe. 

What do you think makes a good story?

A good story is built by good character development.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I wanted to be a nurse, writer, and teacher, and الحمد لله رب العالمين, Allah has blessed me to be an author, madrasah teacher, and a life coach.

What is your favorite book?

This is a difficult question. I don't have any one particular book that I love. Off the top of my head, I would say, Don't Be Sad by Dr. Aidh al-Qarni, His Other Wife by Umm Zakiyyah, Nothing but Love by Zeneefa Zaneer, Behind Picket Fences by Hend Hegazi, and Disciplining The Soul by Imam Ibn al-Jawzi. 

Where do you live?

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Fun Facts

Please share 10 Random facts about yourself for your readers!

1. I love being in the nature.
2. I prefer to study/work during the day, and create stories or brainstorm at night.
3. I'm a tea-person with family, and coffee-lover with friends or when alone.
4. I love to curl up with a book at the end of the day.
5. I love watching babies' and cats' videos.
6. I am a student for life, I love learning.
7. I would love to have a room filled with books - my own personal library.
8. I'm an extrovert with introvert traits.
9. Growing up, I wanted to be a psychologist.
10. As a Qur'an Life Coach, I serve my Muslim sisters to build their personal, deeper connection with the Qur'an.